3rd Gen IPod connection to Windows

I have a 3rd gen IPod (touch wheel) that came with a fire wire cable. I've been running the IPod on a Mac, but now want to switch to a PC. Question: must the PC have a firewire port or can I buy a USB cable and connect to the PC via USB? If yes, must the port be USB 2.0?
Thanks

Question: must the PC have a firewire port or can I buy a USB cable and connect to the PC via USB?
You can use a USB cable, but frankly you can buy a firewire card for cheaper than the USB cable probably, and the firewire card works better and will allow the iPod to charge while connected (3G iPods cannot charge from a USB connection).
If yes, must the port be USB 2.0?
Again, it'll work on a USB 1.1, but it's really, really, really slow. USB2 or Firewire is much faster.
The general recommendation around here is to use Firewire. Adaptec firewire cards for preference. And most newer PC's nowadays have firewire built in anyway, and these usually work okay.

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I am unable to connect my 3rd gen iPod to my Windows 7 Laptop or iTunes

Once again, Apple support Communities creates a new question instead of letting me search within iPod touch for my own research.
For the past six months I have been unable to sync my iPod to iTunes.
The 3rd Gen iPod Touch will not connect to Windows 7 and not recognized by iTunes 11.1.1.11.
I have data/info on my iPod that I prefer not to compromise by doing a hard reset.
I have confirmed that my iPod nano does sync with iTunes on my Win7 Machine. So I'm pretty certain my cable is working ok.
I've heard that I can somehow sync via wifi, but I'm still not sure if that means I can backup my Notes, Contacts and other data without the use of applications like MS Office/Outlook etc.
Thankfully, or detrimentally, I've been able to go for the last few years without changing the 10k songs on my iPod touch. But over the last six months, I've finally started getting bored with the existing songs. Hence the need to solve the non-syncing issue. And I don't like going blindly forward without a backup. My battery and home button have become glitchy and I'm concerned I may lose the unit completely one day soon.
If anyone reading this has any experience with a similar issue, or could offer advice, workaround, or solution, I would be greatly appreciative. And I hope to assist others as I learn more through solving my Apple issues.
Thanks,
Ryan

The Ipod works fine.
Battery charges regularly with the occasional glitch.
Running iTunes 11.1.1.11
I figured a Nano would probably connect in a simpler way than the touch, but only have a couple computers and cables to test.
I've reinstalled iTunes, but not the full suite, and not all traces. I will attempt this, but I suspect its related to my touch. I was able to connect other iphones to my itunes without issue, using the same cable.

IPod 3rd Gen Not Connecting to Windows AT ALL

i have an iPod 3rd Gen 10gb. I use firewire to connect it to my iPod. When i connect it, it shows that it is charging but that is all. my computer won't recognize it at all. i tried a new cable, a new firewire card, i bought a USB cable, reinstalling iPod software and iTunes, the 4 R's obviously not restoring cuz it wont connect. i basically tried everything but no luck. any help would be appreciated.

Do you use iTunes 7? If so please read the Topic I posted. Apperently I got the same problem with a new Nano. I discovered that when you attach the iPod DURING a Windows XP reboot it WILL WORK and see the iPod ...... until you disconnect again.
Please see the Topic I posted:
http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?threadID=647294&tstart=0
Best regards
TheFactory

From Mac to PC. 3rd gen.iPod shows in Windows and not in iTunes

3rd Generation iPod version 2.3
Installing on a PC using Windows XP Home Edition
My son gave me his old iPod having just bought the newest version. I already own an iPod shuffle and have not had any difficulties. I would mention however that my son used the iPod with his Mac computer.
My difficulty is that the iPod shows up in Windows and not in iTunes. I just cannot get iTunes to recognize this iPod.
On the settings on the iPod it states my name, the format is Windows and funnily enough all my playlists have been downloaded but not the tunes.
I have uninstalled the iPod shuffle and uninstalled, reinstalled the software registering the new iPod to me and have gone through all the points mentioned on the Apple site on http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=93716 many times.
Because I kept getting the balloon “One of the USB Devices attached to this computer has malfunctioned and windows does not recognize it” (Even though it appeared in Disk Drives in Device Manager) I have bought and installed a USB 2.0 port PCI card. I really thought this would be the answer. However the usual balloons came up the first time (after having uninstalled and reinstalled the software yet again). The balloons stated that the hardware device has been installed and ready to use. However nothing appears in iTunes. Upon reconnecting the iPod again in whatever port I am still getting the balloon message “USB device attached to this computer has malfunctioned……………………..” All the USB port function properly with other devices (including the iPod shuffle when the software is uninstalled and installed again giving the shuffles details) and on the Device Manager windows they show as working properly. Still on the iPod “do not disconnect” and nothing on the window in iTunes and everytime I plug it in the same old notice comes up.
Any ideas of a solution would be greatly appreciated.
Dell Dimension 3000 Windows XP

No reply from this discussion group but if this helps anyone else it would be good.
I reformated iPod by right clicking on disk in My Computer and clicking format.
After many different notices when trying to open I went to http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=304996 and followed the instructions.
The problem was solved and my iPod now appears in iTunes and I am able to sync.
Millbrookman

3rd gen iPod Nano will not sync with latest version of iTunes. It passes the connectivity test but not the sync test under diagnostics. Worked fine on old Windows 7 laptop but not new one. From Control Panel it shows up as an Apple iPod USB Device...

3rd gen iPod Nano will not sync with latest version of iTunes on new laptop. It passes the connectivity test but not the sync test under diagnostics. Worked fine on old Windows 7 laptop but not new one. From Control Panel it shows up as an Apple iPod USB Device...

Never mind, I think. I think I figured it out. There was 1 song (out of > 900!) that somehow had been purchased with the other ID - I have no idea how. Once I deleted that song, it stopped asking.
There may be something with the newest iTunes version too. I didn't think in older versions that the "On this iPod" list of songs was greyed out. But at least it syncs ok.

Hooking Up Windows Formatted 3rd Gen iPod To New Macbook

Hi guys
I have a 3rd Gen iPod which I was using with my windows pc. I have now bought a macbook and wanted to know can I use the iPod with it?
I tried installing the installer cd on the mac but it said something about requiring some networking plug in.
Also can one single iPod used with both PC and Mac?
What do I need to do?

Macs can read Windows formatting so you just need to connect your iPod to start using the iTunes library. However if your iPod is set to update automatically take care when connecting back to your new computer and a different iTunes. If it is set to automatically update you will get a message that your iPod is linked to a different library and asking if you want to link to this one and replace all your songs etc, press *No* (or "Cancel" if you are using iTunes 7). Pressing "Yes" (or Erase and Sync in iTunes 7) will irretrievably remove all songs from your iPod. Your iPod should appear in the iTunes source list from where you can change the update setting to manual and use your iPod without the risk of accidentally erasing it. In iTunes 7 Check the "manually manage music and videos" box in Summary then press the Apply button. Don't uncheck Sync Music it will be unchecked by default when you choose the manual setting: Managing content manually on iPod
You can also use a keyboard command to prevent your iPod auto-syncing with iTunes. While connecting the iPod to the computer on a Mac hold down the Option and Command (⌥ and ⌘) keys, (on Windows hold down the Shift + Ctrl keys). This will stop the iPod from auto-syncing with iTunes and the iPod will appear in the source list. Wait until you are sure the iPod has mounted, and that it will not auto sync and then you can let the keys go. This may take between 20 to 30 seconds depending on your computer.
To keep your iPod Windows formatted you'll have to carry out any software updates or restores from the PC. Updating or restoring on the Mac will change the formatting.

Transferred itunes library from Windows XP PC to new Windows 7 PC. plugged in 3rd gen Ipod. Ipod icon appears along with playlists, music etc. Songs are grayed out and won't play. Please help!

I recently transferred itunes library from windows XP PC to new Windows 7 PC. The transfer was successful, however when I plug my 3rd gen Ipod Nano into the new PC, the Ipod icon appears along with the music, playlists, etc. The songs are shown but are 'grayed out' and wont play or sync.The 'Devices & Printers' window in new PC shows icon for Ipod driver & is OK. The icon for the Ipod appears but depicts a delta shaped warning icon that states that the Ipod is'not operating properly'. Tried troubleshooting. The troubleshooting message states the the Ipod is 'disconnecting'. Can you help me with this problem?

Then, I dropped the entire itunes file from the old PC (XP) into an empty external drive.
That "itunes file from the old PC"? Is that the iTunes folder, from the old PC, that was in the user home folder's Music folder?
All of the library, playlists, etc. from the ipod as they always have been are shown, by they are 'grayed out' and will not open or play.
That's on the iPod, correct? Are all of your old playlists in iTunes, from the old PC, still there in iTunes on the new PC? Are the songs in iTunes still playable?
This document provides the steps to transfer a complete iTunes library between two computers. See the section called External drive.
iTunes: How to move your music to a new computer - Apple Support
There are many steps, but this is a summary. (1) On the old PC, consolidate all of your iTunes data into the iTunes folder. (2) Copy this iTunes folder to the external drive. (3) On the new PC (that has iTunes installed but NOT running), replace its existing iTunes folder with the one from the old PC (on the external drive). When you run iTunes, it uses the iTunes folder from the old PC, and it should look like iTunes on the old PC (with all the playlists, ratings, play count, etc.), and your iPod will see the iTunes library as the same iTunes library (because it is the same library).
If you did something different, and the old PC is still accessible, you may want to try it using the method from the linked document.

I am trying to put music into my 3rd gen ipod touch and older ipod shuffle but they do not show up on Itunes when i connect them,what could be the problem?

i am trying to put music into my 3rd gen ipod touch and older ipod shuffle but neither are popping up on itunes, what could be the problem?

See
iOS: Device not recognized in iTunes for Windows
- I would start with
Removing and Reinstalling iTunes, QuickTime, and other software components for Windows XP
or
Removing and reinstalling iTunes and other software components for Windows Vista, Windows 7, or Windows 8
However, after your remove the Apple software components also remove the iCloud Control Panel via Windows Programs and Features app in the Window Control Panel. Then reinstall all the Apple software components
- New cable and different USB port
- Run this and see if the results help with determine the cause
iTunes for Windows: Device Sync Tests
Also see:
iPod not recognised by windows iTunes
Troubleshooting issues with iTunes for Windows updates
- Try on another computer to help determine if computer or iPod problem

I have a 3rd gen Ipod touch and when i connect it to my Macbook pro to sync it with itunes, it doesn't show up on iTunes. When I connect my iPhone 6 to my computer it syncs, backs up, ect. How do I connect this older iPod to my iTunes?

I have a 3rd gen Ipod touch. When I connect it to my Macbook pro to sync it with itunes, it doesn't show up on iTunes. When I connect my iPhone 6 to my computer it syncs, backs up, ect. How do I make this older iPod show up on my iTunes?

Hi ChristianHelpplz,
Thanks for visiting Apple Support Communities.
It seems like your iPod touch is not recognized by iTunes on your Mac, but your iPhone 6 is working normally.
I recommend starting with these steps to troubleshoot your iPod touch and connection with your Mac:
Check your USB connections
Unplug other USB devices from your Mac and try again.
Try a different USB port.
Try a different USB cable.
Restart your device
Restart your iOS device or reset your iPod.
Restart your Mac
Turn your Mac off and back on.
Update your software
Check for software updates on your Mac.
Check for an iTunes update.
Check your security software
If you have security software installed, learn how to resolve issues between iTunes and your security software.
From:
If you don't see your connected device in iTunes for Mac - Apple Support
If you've tried these steps and your iPod touch is still not recognized, try placing it into Recovery Mode next:
If you can't update or restore your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch - Apple Support
Sincerely,
Jeremy

3rd gen ipod won't connect with firewire.

3rd gen ipod won't connect to itunes with firewire. USB connects rarely but drains battery quickly. I've rebooted the ipod and computer and updated itunes. No effect. Any remedies besides buying a new ipod.

Answer to Question 1: - I connected the iPod with the USB, went to Disk Utility and erased the iPod. Now the iPod works with USB.
Question 2 is still unanswered. Ideas?

3rd gen iPod touch. I just get a blank screen (after a few secs of the apple symbol) when it is switched on or when connected for charging. I know the connections are OK. Suggestions/help please

3rd gen iPod touch. I just get a blank screen (after a few secs of the apple symbol) when it is switched on or when connected for charging. I know the connections are OK. Suggestions/help please

I took the iPod to the local Apple shop. The guy put the iPod onto a docking station and checked it - answer "connections are OK". I have used the link before but have not gone through all its suggestions (although picked on the most relevant ones). I may have to go back. Thanks again for your suggestions

Formatting 3rd Gen ipod from Mac to Windows

Hello.
I need to format a 3rd Gen iPod from Mac to windows for my Father in Law.
So please can anyone tell what the process is?
Many thanks,

The iPod is formatted for both PC and Mac, I used to use mine with a PC, bought a Mac, plugged it in and it worked with the Mac no problem. I'm not sure that this works both ways though, if you're having problems you could try this link for help: http://ipod.about.com/od/restoreandreformatipod/a/ipod_reformat.htmhttp://

I'm trying to update a 32gb 3rd gen iPod touch and it says "make sure network settings are correct and network is active". I'm definitely connected to the network. What should I do?

I'm trying to update a 32gb 3rd gen iPod touch and it says "make sure network settings are correct and network is active". I'm definitely connected to the network. What should I do?

Try disabling the computer's antivirus and firewall.

Attempting to connect a 3rd gen ipod nano to itunes that has 2nd gen nano..

So that may or may not have made sense, but basically what is happening that I'm trying to sync up my brand-new 3rd gen. iPod nano to a newly update version of iTunes that still shows that my 2nd gen. iPod is on there, when it got stolen 4 months ago. I've restarted my computer about 4 times and un-installed and re-installed iTunes twice, all to no avail.
I appreciate any answers that may come from this.

Oh, so you mean go from headphone jack to aux? I thought I had to go from that new lightning connector to aux.

3rd Gen Nano connects and then QUICKLEY disconnects on an XP machine

Below are two postings I made in a different discussion area. The 30g iPod is now working fine, the Nano is as stated in the second post. Please to help me out? As stated below Apple says it works and it does on the wrong machine! As many of you out there know, sometimes a husbands and a wifes taste in music are different. I would like to keep my music on my machine. Thanks, reo52............
I have been running very well with my 30g Video iPod. I got an 8g nano as an award. I had just upgraded iTunes, tried hooking the nano up and now nothing works! iTunes never did find the nano. Did the r,r,r,r,r thing but could only reset because iTunes can not see the nano. Later I was syncing the 30g and was ejecting it and got a message stating it could not be ejected as there are files on it being used by another program. Did the 5R's on he 30g, the unit was syncing and the battery went low and interrupted the sync. Now iTunes can't see the 30g or the 8g. I did a reinstall of iTunes and still nothing. This is driving me to drink, HELP if you can. Thanks, reo52.............
Well, I sent the Nano in, it came back, Apple found no problems with it. When trying to sync it acted as before. With Apple on the phone I tried syncing to my wifes machine!?? I'll be dammed it synced right up!???! Well Apples says it works because it works on my wifes machine!! Well, why wont it work on my PC?!!. Both machines are running up to date iTunes, both have the same firewalls and virus programs and both are running XP with all service packs and updates installed. Now I can work around this for awhile but I have got to get that Nano to sync with my machine. Help if you can and Thanks again, reo52

To Apple,
822 unresolved problems in "Connecting 3rd Gen Nano to a Windows Machine" , 25-50% on each page are problems with connecting a Nano in Windows and getting it recognized in Windows or iTunes or syncing errors(1st 5 pages). I think this qualifies as a serious problem. Many state that their Nano works on a different Windows machines and or an Apple machine, but not the one they use. Others and myself have sent their Nanos beck and Apple. Apple states "unit works fine, can not reproduce problem, or words to that effect" then Apple sends it back! It still will not work for the customer. So who has the problem? Owners who can not use their Nano? Apple who has the owners cash but maybe not their goodwill? I do not know, but I can see a Customer satisfaction problem developing. So APPLE please do your best to resolve this situation. It could be to your own advantage and help with those 822 unresolved problems on the Nano Pages. Thanks, reo52

3rd Gen IPod connection to Windows

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